I've been a caretaker of an elderly woman with dementia for over two years. I've seen the effects of this mental affliction, and how devastating it can be to loved ones. This is why I am a firm believer in seeking a professional diagnosis, so the patient may receive necessary care and treatment. Once diagnosed at the onset of symptoms, a plan can be devised. Through social interaction and daily care, my charge has achieved a higher quality of life. If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, you can make a difference. Love will find a way.
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Dementia and Your Loved One
Choosing A Primary Care Physician: The Difference Between A D.O. And An M.D.
Vickie Armstrong
When you get health insurance from your employer or purchase from the marketplace on your own, you will most likely be required to choose a primary care physician. You will be given a list of providers to pick from who are in-network. In-network physicians have contracted with the insurance company to provide basic services at set prices, theoretically keeping down medical costs for everyone.
How do you choose who you want to care for you from this list of physicians, though? Chances are, you won't personally know any of them; they are just names. You could ask a coworker or friend for a reference. You could choose by their location and proximity to your home or work or based on if you feel more comfortable with a specific gender, for example. You could also consider choosing your primary care physician by his or her philosophy; if so, here is what you need to know about the medical designation Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.).
How Is An Osteopath (D.O.) The Same As A Medical Doctor (M.D.)?
A D.O. and an M.D. must take the exact same prerequisite science courses, like anatomy, chemistry, and biology, in undergraduate school. They must also both pass the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test). They both have to complete internships and do their residency. Both can practice in every state in the union, prescribe medications, and depending on specialty training, perform surgery as well. In fact, osteopaths can specialize in any field, just like medical doctors.
So How Are They Different Then?
After reading how alike they are, you may be wondering how could they possibly differ then. The difference lies in the philosophical beliefs of an osteopath, which could potentially be of great benefit to you and your unique medical situation.
The osteopathy designation came to be in the last half of the 19th century when physician Dr. Andrew Still could no longer deny the mind, body, and spirit connection. He firmly believed the human body had the power to heal itself in some cases, and the emotional and spiritual well-being of a patient directly affected the physical well-being. He also believed in the importance of annual physical manipulation of the body, similar to chiropractic care. This whole body, holistic approach to medicine also means a D.O. may be more likely to appreciate the role natural remedies can play.
What Kind Of Patient Is A D.O. Primary Care Physician A Good Choice For?
An osteopath is a good choice for anyone who wants to feel they have maximum control over their healthcare decisions and a physician who is willing to treat the whole body. Some patients with chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia or depression, may also benefit more from a D.O.'s holistic approach.
Check out a clinic like Rural Health Services Consortium Inc. to meet with a primary care physician.
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